In a message peppered with calls for unity, President Irfaan Ali, has again implored citizens to work together for a common good—the good of country.

But he said this must first start with self-introspection and looking at how you treat those around you.

Addressing a Phagwah Programme at State House on Sunday evening, the President said those who are in a position to help should reach out to someone and offer a lending hand in the spirit of holi.

“This Holi I want us to do It a bit different as a country, because Holi is about coming together of families and communities, it is about prosperity, and I want us before we engage on Tuesday in any activity to spend a few moments and to look among our communities, our families and our friends and to see who among those require some assistance, some help, something from you to allow them to enjoy Holi on Tuesday also,” the President said.

The President said he has urged his cabinet colleagues to reach out and give as much as they can and has also urged his colleagues in the political space to do same.

“Every Parliamentarian in this country—you do not need to give physically or financially, give a bit more smile, give a bit more tolerance, give a bit more openness and if we do this, I am convinced that Holi’s will continue to inspire us,” the President noted.

President Ali said that citizens regardless of religion or region of residence – need to live in harmony, to block out hatred and to contribute to the common good by coming together.

Guyana observes the Hindu spring festival of Phagwah on Tuesday.

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